Another beautiful Rhode Island summer is here and we're loving the endless sunshine and warm beach days. From lounging on the sand to biking miles of trails, there's no shortage of things to do in the Ocean State this season. But, while you're out and about enjoying the summer sun, remember these few tips to keep your treasures sparkling and safe.
Avoid the Plunge
While the warmer temperatures often draw us to take a refreshing dip in the cold water, your jewelry doesn't need to swim with you. Both chlorine and saltwater, over time, can discolor the gold or wear on the platinum metals of your rings. Some softer gemstones, such as opal, can also wear negatively when exposed to the change in temperature or chemicals of the water. When packing for the beach or pool, be sure to leave your jewelry at home. Or, bring a cloth bag with you to keep your items safe and dry before getting in the water.
Play Nice
Venturing to the beach? Before you jump into that sand volleyball game or spend the afternoon building a sandcastle with your kids, be sure to consider the safety of your jewelry. Sand can rub against your metals stones, affecting their shine or finish. Extreme impacts like spiking a volleyball can damage clasps or cause a stone to fall out of its setting. While playing and being active is a great way to burn off that summer energy, it's important to secure your treasured jewelry at home during game time to keep it in pristine condition.
Spray Your Skin, Not Your Accessories
Protecting your skin from the sun and biting bugs is important, but so is taking care of your jewelry properly. Lather up with all sunscreens, bug sprays and tanning lotions before putting on your accessories to help keep your gems sparkling. Lotions and sunscreens leave a film on your pieces that make them appear dull and cloudy. If you do wear your jewelry during the application process, don't panic. Use a gentle, wet cloth to clean the piece and restore its radiance, or stop by and we can clean it for you!.
Schedule a Summer Cleaning at Baxter's
While it's important to keep your precious metals and gemstones clean all year long, the summer months require a little more attention due to the harsh elements and sweaty activities. No matter where your activities take you, Baxter's Fine Jewelry has you covered with free cleanings and inspections. We'll check to make sure everything is secure and look for any signs of damage. If anything looks out of place, we offer a full range of repair services. So, as your summer heats up, pay us a visit at 200 Jefferson Boulevard. We're here to help you maintain the life and legacy of your most loved jewelry all season long.